Immerse yourself in the magical winter atmosphere of Hokkaido with our exclusive photography tour, specially designed for nature and photography enthusiasts. This unique journey will take you into the heart of breathtaking snowy landscapes, offering you the opportunity to capture extraordinary images of Japan’s most iconic species. The adventure begins with thrilling sunrise boat trips, where you will have the privilege of capturing the majestic white-tailed eagles and spectacular Steller’s sea eagles soaring over the frozen sea. Your days will be enriched by close encounters with elegant Japanese cranes at the Tsurui Crane Center, famous for their elaborate dances in the pristine white of the snowy fields. We will visit the enchanting Swan Lake, where wild swans become the stars of your photographs in charming scenes reflected on the crystal-clear water. In the harbor, you’ll also have the chance to photograph the Harlequin duck, while in the snowy forests, you can capture the long-tailed tit and the colorful Asian Rosy Finch in their natural habitat.
Additionally, you’ll encounter the Japanese macaques in the warm hot springs of the Nagano mountains, flying from Hokkaido to Tokyo to continue our journey. The fascinating scenes of “snow monkeys” in the hot springs offer unique shots in enchanting natural settings. Join us to capture the magic of the Japanese winter on a tour that combines adventure, nature, and photography. This is an unmissable opportunity to enrich your portfolio with extraordinary images and to experience an unforgettable adventure!
ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival in Kushiro
Welcome to the Winter Realm Upon arrival in Kushiro, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to the snowy village of Tsurui — a serene landscape blanketed in white and surrounded by frost-covered forests. After settling into our traditional ryokan, we’ll share a welcome dinner, discuss the upcoming photographic opportunities, and ensure your gear is ready for the days ahead. Photo Tip: Use the first evening to test your settings in low light and get a feel for the snow’s reflectivity.
Day 2 – Tsurui: Dances in the Snow
Today is all about the iconic Red-crowned Cranes, famed for their graceful courtship dances against a pristine white backdrop. From early morning to late afternoon, we photograph these elegant birds at the Tsurui Crane Sanctuary. Their synchronized movements, foggy breath, and snowflakes create images full of motion and atmosphere. If conditions allow, we may visit the Otanoshike Roost, a spot known for magical morning mists. Photo Tip: Try slow shutter speeds for creative motion blur, or isolate pairs in mid-dance with a fast prime lens.
Day 3 – Rausu: Sea Eagles on the Drift Ice
An early drive takes us to Rausu on the Notsuke Peninsula, where the frozen Sea of Okhotsk hosts one of the world’s most spectacular raptor encounters. In the afternoon (weather permitting), we head out on a boat into the drift ice to photograph Steller’s Sea Eagles and White-tailed Eagles as they swoop down for fish, talons extended, wings wide. Photo Tip: Use continuous AF and burst mode — action is fast and unpredictable. Focus on expressions and eye contact.
Day 4 – Lake Kussharo: Swans in the Mist
We journey inland toward the caldera lake of Kussharo, pausing en route to photograph scenic forests and potential sightings of foxes or deer. In the afternoon, we photograph Whooper Swans gathered at geothermal hot spring outflows — a dreamlike setting where steam rises from the water and soft light bathes the scene. Photo Tip: Backlit mist and reflections offer surreal compositions; experiment with silhouettes and low-angle shots.
Day 5 – Kussharo: Wildlife & Winter Silence
The morning begins with a walk through snowy woods where Sika Deer, Red Squirrels, and flocks of winter birds (such as the Eurasian Jay or Long-tailed Tit) offer varied shooting opportunities. We break mid-day to recharge and warm up, then return in the golden light for a lakeside session. Photo Tip: Focus on wildlife behavior — feeding, grooming, or movement in the snow tells a deeper story than static portraits.
Day 6 – Rausu: Flight over the Ice (Second Boat Trip)
Back to Rausu for another incredible drift ice cruise — this time, you'll be ready to perfect your eagle shots with improved timing and anticipation. Post-cruise, we photograph Hokkaido Red Foxes, coastal deer, and dramatic winter seascapes. Photo Tip: Capture interactions between eagles, or frame them within wider icy landscapes for scale.
Day 7 – Tsurui: The Final Dance
Our last full day in Hokkaido is dedicated again to the cranes — now with a deeper appreciation for their elegance and behavior. We revisit the feeding grounds or roosting areas, focusing on early morning or late afternoon light for ethereal effects. Photo Tip: Try minimalist compositions: a single crane, clean snow, soft light — Japanese aesthetics at their best.
Day 8 – Flight to Tokyo: A Shift in Scenery
Morning flight from Kushiro to Tokyo Haneda. Upon arrival, we check into our lodge and prepare for the second part of our journey. Use the evening to rest or review your images so far.
Day 9 – Jigokudani: Snow Monkeys in the Steam
A true highlight of the tour: Japanese Macaques bathing in natural hot springs in the mountains of Nagano. Set in a snowy gorge surrounded by steam and icicles, this is one of the most iconic wildlife scenes in the world. Photo Tip: Focus on expressions and interactions — grooming, play, and bathing offer emotive and storytelling shots.
Day 10 – Morning with the Monkeys & Return to Tokyo
We return to the park for a final session with the snow monkeys, often more active in the early morning. After lunch, we travel back to Tokyo and enjoy a farewell dinner with an optional photo review and feedback session-
Day 11 – Departure Day
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight. You leave Japan with memory cards full of powerful images and a heart full of unforgettable moments in the winter wilderness.
